SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort

It can take a moment or two to love the harsh concrete environment of this hotel, it's very stern. But... soon the sheer calmness and quiet of the place wins you over, and wandering through the walled pathways you come to the expanse of grass and pools, leading to the beach, and that's the wow. The wellness factor is high on this hotel's USP. Quite White Lotus-y vibes, and all good for it. Staff are wonderful, everyone we encountered. The food was terrific - gorgeous, extensive breakfasts, and each evening we strayed no further than the hotel restaurant - so good was it. There is so much space by the pool and on the grass the beds were never full or even crowded. The beach doesn't have any sunbeds (due to turtles nesting) which makes for an idyllic scene. Sea is heavenly. Red/yellow flags alert if the sea is not safe for swimming. Only one day of our 7 was that the case. But the pool is huge (pools) so that wasn't a problem. Full disclosure - when checking in we were shown to an upstairs room which was very nice (no view), large balcony with outside bathroom etc, BUT there was very loud music coming from the room below. We mentioned this to the manager and were immediately moved to a pool villa, an upgrade, which was very nice indeed. So actually we had a much more luxurious room than we'd booked, and it was gorgeous. But the initial room was okay too, and actually we hardly used the villa pool as it was a) pretty cold (water!) and b) the temptations of the sea and main pool were too much to ignore. Main advantage was it was alot closer to the sea and restaurant etc.
We had a small medical matter which needed attending to while we were there, and the hotel were incredibly helpful in taking us to the medical centre and on from there to the hospital in Phuket (an hour away). So huge credit to the hotel in faultlessly handling both our initial room disappointment, and the transport to the health centre. 100% happy. We will be back.

We had an unforgettable stay at SALA Phuket Thailand, and it was truly the best hotel experience we’ve ever had as a couple. The private villa was absolutely beautiful, modern, and very clean. The best part was the huge private swimming pool — it felt like our own little paradise!
The villa gave us complete privacy and a very romantic atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy time together. Everything was comfortable and luxurious, from the design of the room to the peaceful surroundings.
The staff were extremely friendly, professional, and always ready to help. The service was excellent and made our stay even more special.
If you are looking for the perfect romantic getaway in Phuket, this is the place. We highly recommend SALA Phuket and we will definitely come back again!

We had a pool room with outside bathroom and lovely big bed. It would have been easy never to leave our suite however we ventured out into the hotel grounds and found beautiful pools, attentive service, lovely food, sun kissed beach and warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Lounging on beds watching the sunset during happy hour, local entertainment while we dined on fine Thai and dishes from around the world, cicadas chipping happily...bliss
And Tony the Executive Chef, a constant presence ensuring the highest standards were constantly achieved !

I'll start by saying that I did not want to come to this hotel.... We were at the end of a months long trip to Singapore , Australia and Thailand, ending up in Ko Ya Noi for my 70th birthday. This was our 6th trip to Thailand in the last 5 years but we had never been to Phuket. That was intentional, however as we had to fly to Phuket and travel on to Ko Ya Noi by boat and overnight in Phuket , I wanted to see it. That couldn't happen as our flight in was arriving at night and we were out the next day and so we had to take a night by the airport. The resort in Koh Ya Noi was responsible for all our arrangements after arrival at the airport and this was the hotel they used.
There my objection ended. We walked out of the airport in Phuket after a delayed flight from Melbourne. The heat smacked me across the face and I felt soo excited being back in Thailand. Our transfer was awaiting and took about 20 minutes to this hotel. We drove on ever smaller roads and eventually arrived to the perfect peace and tranquility which we loved throughout the time we were there. I was so taken at trying to see beyond the reception that I nearly stepped in the long water feature which was so still and undisturbed I thought it was the path!
Our room was on the first floor- cool, comfortable quiet and attractively furnished and decorated. The room was surrounded on two sides by a curtained area which contained the bath shower and toilet. But no time to waste! We knew dinner finished at 10.30 and the flight delay meant we were unlikely to make it. The person at reception said she'd contact the restaurant and as we rolled in puffing at 10.30 they welcomed us . ( It is of note that another table arrived after us and were served.)
The dining room ( or roof as it had no sides!) was quiet and peaceful and wonderful after 8 hours at 30000 + feet. The food was excellent and there was no hint of hurrying us.
After a very good sleep we made for breakfast which was laid out and a HUGE selection- again with the pervading atmosphere of calm and quiet.
After breakfast we wandered around the grounds which were extensive and down on to the beach and all too soon we left.
This was a glorious hotel to stay in and I am very glad that we stayed there. I don't think I have ever been anywhere so peaceful.
A very minor point was that in daylight the accomodation resembled the architecture of 1960/70's universities in the UK but this was not enough to detract from a 5 star rating!

The villa was spacious and cozy. The bed and pillows were very comfortable, and everything you could need was provided. The bathtub, private pool, and sunbeds were excellent for couples, and truly romantic atmosphere. Although we experienced a brief power outage, it did not affect our enjoyment, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

The hotel offered a peaceful and relaxing ambiance. The common pool area was well-designed and perfect for sunny day. The staff went above and beyond to deliver outstanding service, providing a truly five-star experience throughout our stay.
We would definitely comeback again.

Thank you Sala for yet another amazing experience with you. We have travelled extensively and can honestly say the breakfast here is the best! The tranquil setting and service is second to none. From the most comfortable bed and exquisite linen to all the other luxuries. The Spa Thai massage absolutely amazing!
Even though we’ve been here now 3 times we’ll come back and keep recommending to our friends.
Thank you

I’m having to be a little harsh with my 4 out of 5 but that is because there have been some things this hotel let us down on. In the main it’s a good resort, well kept and with comfy rooms with all my ‘must have’ boxes ticked - such as ‘proper’ normal hangers in the hanging space, a free in-room safe, lots of water, great shower and very comfy bed with delightful bed sheets. The downside is that there is no real life or choice of alternatives nearby (there is a cluster of shops but they know the hotels are 5 star and charge accordingly) so you are stuck with high priced drinks. The buffet on our first night half board was cold and we didn’t particularly like the choice, so that was a bad start (thankfully just once a week) On departure we requested help with the cases and this didn’t turn up as requested meaning I hauled all the cases down a huge staircase only for them to turn up 10 minutes after we’d stated. Also the service in the restaurant is sooooo slow. Too slow. The view from any room is not great, in fact the ‘private’ open bathroom is not private at all unless you pull curtains which defeats the point? Also the doors to the balcony are difficult to operate and make noise in the night. The positives were the bringing of jugs of water at poolside, replenished during the day, also the dinner food (à la carte) was gorgeous and with huge portions. The breakfast is also incredible with a mix of buffet and à la carte. Entertainment was also good on a couple of nights - a DJ and a live musician. Some hotel ‘features’ like choosing your scent for toiletries and choosing pillows was a bit unnecessary but still nice. We only stayed 3 nights and the hotel was growing on us, but the suitcase nightmare when we left spoilt it - they were not busy. Same when we arrived, cases took ages and when you arrive you just want to get unpacked. Go quicker!!!!

5 night stay here, from the start to finish it has been amazing - lovely staff, delicious food and super comfy bed, even allowed us an early check in after a long flight here

Tried yoga bootcamp and hired bikes - lovely 3.5km bike route around the lake directly behind
Didn’t try the spa as the massage hut for one hour massage next door was only 500bht
Very Short walk to two/three local restaurants don’t forget your torch
Thanks to our lovely pool bar man and Guy for the activities
We will be back

They have an amazing spa with some very good therapists. We tried the complimentary massages which were themselves very good but Master Sara and her stick massages were on another level.
The rooms advertised as Villas actually have another room on top and some of them(like ours) were next to the main road with just a tall wall in between. You will hear all the traffic roll by if you sit in the pool area.
Food was good with a decent breakfast menu and good options on both the grill and thai food.
Though it rained on most days we were there, I liked their pool which was deep enough to do laps.

This is a fantastic resort hotel for couples, we got one of the garden rooms with its own pool and outside bath and shower, it rained for four days while we were there, which is unusual for the time of year, but it didn’t make any difference because we could just relax in our own garden.
The staff here are wonderful and can’t do enough for you, special thanks goes out to the team in the restaurant, Tiger, Annie, and Bee who looked after our every need expertly and always made us feel very welcome.
The resort feels very spacious. It’s right on the beachfront, but has a garden/lawn in between it and the beach which is lovely to stroll along as there are other resorts either side of you to visit.
I would highly recommend Sala Beach to anybody

If you want a true reset, for time to stop, and experience effortless luxury; Sala Phuket Resort is it. Their friendly and memorable staff will accommodate your needs and help you make memories. And the food on property almost makes traveling the region for food finds unnecessary. Pro-tip: their breakfast buffet with inclusive ala carte choices will set you up for the day! And their vegan options rivals the world’s best stays. Go explore the property for some of the best picturesque atmospheres a resort can offer. (Nature-forward open luxurious bathrooms, spa and workout areas, to the multiple pool beachside amenities). No matter which amazing convenient sightseeing spots you checkout in Phuket, you can’t wait to get back on property.

As an older couple we found access to the room pool difficult, no steps.

This also went for the main pool.

The hotel is “modern” and is subject to form over functional in a number of areas

The food offerings we’re excellent and we enjoyed our free cocktails and tapas

We stayed at Sala for 5 nights and enjoyed every minute of it. The staff was exceptionally attentive and friendly, the food was fantastic (breakfast was a particular highlight), and the whole property (spa, pool, communal areas, and room) was beautifully designed.

We especially enjoyed taking advantage of the daily activities organized by Man and Guy (yoga, bike rides, etc.) and loved stopping by the Sala farm to see the chickens, ducks and goats (including 5 baby goats!) maintained by the resort.

We would recommend Sala to anyone
visiting Phuket and plan to return again ourselves!

Housekeeping should pay more attention when cleaning the room especially replenished toiletries after every guest checked-out. When we checked in, we have 2 new toothbrush packages but an opened comb package. During our stay, housekeeping put in new toilet roll but left it around instead of back at the wall, seems like they were in the rush.

From the fabulous room to a great service and stunning view of a a quiet place in Phuket. We loved every moment of our trip. We will be back

As a family of three we decided to stay in a two bedroom villa. The rooms are beautiful, bathrooms are (outside which is different) but quickly got used to it and loved it. Something liberating showering outside!

This place is truly the retreat you need to destress and relax. WOW. We have loved every second of it.

On our arrival we met Bo who was fantastic. She showed us to our villa and gave us a tour, informing us about the doorbells to aircon and so on. Throughout our stay we bumped into her and she always stopped to chat to us.
She asked us about our day and if we ever needed anything. She even gave us her WhatsApp number so we could message her if we needed anything. Truly a personal experience. Bo even remembered from previous days we’d gone on trips and asked about them too.

The staff there are next level kind, caring and friendly.
I have a very bad reaction to mosquito bites and they saw my legs and couldn’t do enough for me to help. They put a net up, put a ‘mozzie catcher machine’ (as I am going to call it), and they sprayed my room with special sprays when I am out. They also light an oil burner every night which also helps. Bo made sure that everything was okay and every time we saw her she asked how i was.

A special mention to Bee. The sweetest lady on this planet! She is so kind and always made time to come and speak to us while we were in the restaurant. She made sure we had everything we needed.
One evening I was quite sun burnt (the sun is no joke there!) and we had a dessert coming. She could tell I wasn’t feeling well so I said I’d go back to the room. We asked if I could maybe get an ice bucket sent to the room and the food. She assured me and said go to your room and I will sort it. Sure enough in the next 10 minutes there was a ring at the door with my ice bucket and food. Bee, you are special!

The food was delicious. We’ve not had a bad meal from there for the whole two weeks. A special mention toon to Tony the Executive Chef ! He was brilliant and always made the time to come and speak to us. He looked after us from making recommendations to making sure our food was bang on every time. He always asked what we thought of the food (which was amazing every time!) If you see him you have to say hello!

The spa is amazing! Ice, one of the therapists there was absolutely brilliant and so thorough. I got a 90 minute massage and straight away she felt knots and tension. She made sure they were all out and they were all so kind. With my sun burn she even saw and gave me some aloe to help. Another amazing personal touch.

Every single member of staff had a smile on their face and always said hello.

There was plenty of sun beds to sit on with no rush to get to them. Niceee big towels and the gentleman who sorted towels and water was truly on it. Ice water when we sat down and if it was warm he’d offer a new one for us.

We made friends with the lizards… we named two called Jeff and Alan. Ps, they love papaya and watermelon🤣 watch out for the little heads as they pop out of their holes on the grass. Such characters!

What a special find this place is.

Some bits we wish we knew before coming here;

It is in a quiet spot called turtle village. This has cafes and restaurants with pharmacies and little shops around. And most importantly a 711! A Brit’s dream🤣. They have shuttle busses every half an hour to take you there and back for free. You can also take bikes free of charge which we did a few times. It was only about 8 minutes to the nearest 711 and pharmacy.

We would recommend this place and we would come back in a heartbeat.
Thank you to everyone, but Bo, Bee, Tony and Ice made this trip so so special for us.

If you are looking for a quiet holiday far from the hustle and bustle of Patong, this is a perfect resort. It has an understated elegance and a beautiful beach. The resort reflects the passion of both the owner and the architect. The resort is close to the airport but about 45 min drive from most tourist attractions. The closest shopping area is the turtle village where a free shuttle is provided till 0930pm. There is a 7/11 also there. There is also a lake opposite which you can cycle around from the resort. The pool villa was well appointed and large. It has an open bathroom concept so could be uncomfortable to some. The service was warm and efficient. Special mention of our Villa Host Marky who ensured we were very comfortable. The restaurant has a good buffet breakfast. All in all it was a beautiful stay worth returning to

It’s our last day at SALA Phuket and a good time to reflect on what has been an outstanding stay.

First of all the staff are super-friendly, they can’t do enough for you. From the friendly faces at reception, your first interaction, to the restaurant staff, to the pool staff. Everyone is just so eager to please.

The food itself is top-notch. The buffet breakfast is extensive and you get to pick 2 a la carte options from the menu. I think our party pretty much tried everything. The lunch menu is equally extensive with options to suit all appetites and paletes. Pizza, pasta, sandwiches and Thai options are all there. The evening menu is even more comprehensive and the Chef, Tony, has done a cracking job assembling such an enticing selection.

There is only one restaurant but to be honest, that’s all this place needs.

We chose an adjoining pool villa for our family of 4. Pure luxury; outdoor bathroom and a lovely air conditioned bedroom (with outdoor bath) all set around a small but nicely sized pool, 2 of them in fact. All the facilities were there, tea/coffee machine, mini-bar (pretty good value compared to some hotels) and plenty of storage space. Cleaned daily with a turn-down service that came with a gift of a healthy juice to detox with.

We chose to go on a couple of excursions organised by the hotel most notably the James Bond island tour, which was an exceptional experience. Sure, we could’ve got it a cheaper price using a local operator but we wouldn’t have had the attentive service of Goff, who made the trip really easy for us to enjoy. The hotel even showed the film “the man with the golden gun” later in the week so we could see the film set we’d just visited on the big screen.

The weather was a bit changeable but it is rainy season, so what should we have expected?

All in all, a wonderful stay made perfect by the people, just be careful you don’t chill out too much!

A superb evening with a very romantic setting by the sea. The opening cocktails and appetizers were great. The carrot soup worth finding the recipe. The seafood platter delicious with perfectly cooked rock lobster. The steak was very tender. The pavlova dessert perfect - so hard to execute in this climate. The wine list is extensive with affordable options. The service could not have been better!

A wonderful experience! The staff were so accommodating and the facilities better than I have ever experienced. Free shuttle into town where you can be face to face with elephants (after 5pm), lunch at a nice restaurant or just some shopping. I highly recommend this resort if you are looking for some true r&r!